A roundup of great masterpieces and popular songs of Brazilian music

Baby95Liniker

Liniker – Baby95

While carrying on the tradition of MPB, Linn da Quebrada from São Paulo state embodies the brilliance of contemporary Brazilian music as it intersects with soul and R&B.

Singing of love and dignity from the perspective of a Black transgender woman, her expression captures listeners’ hearts and doesn’t let go.

The work introduced here is a track released in June 2021 ahead of the album Indigo Borboleta Anil, which marked the full-fledged start of her solo career; it went on to achieve the remarkable feat of winning Best Portuguese-Language Song at the 2022 Latin Grammy Awards.

Evoking the warmth of intimate love and self-acceptance through images of nature—shimmering sun and sea—the piece is truly a masterpiece where the lyricism of MPB meets contemporary grooves.

Its refined yet somehow nostalgic sound is perfect for a leisurely listen on a holiday afternoon.

Por SupuestoMarina Sena

MARINA SENA – POR SUPUESTO (VISUALIZER)

Singer-songwriter Marina Sena, from the north of Minas Gerais.

With a hybrid style that freely traverses MPB, pop, indie, and even street music, she’s a defining figure of the contemporary Brazilian music scene.

This track features her slightly nasal, gently wavering, sensual voice delicately sketching a bittersweet love over a pop melody.

While she’s captivated by the other person’s smile, the frustration of unrequited feelings tightens the listener’s chest.

It’s included on her solo debut album De Primeira, released in August 2021, and was also featured on the soundtrack of the TV series As Five.

The song generated buzz on social media even before its release and received massive acclaim, earning diamond certification in Brazil.

Its catchy sound should be comfortable listening even for those unfamiliar with MPB!

Mas Que NadaJorge Ben Jor

Mas, Que Nada!

A legendary track that brought a fresh breeze to Brazil’s music scene.

Released in 1963, it has since been covered by many artists.

It features a distinctive rhythm that fuses samba and bossa nova, along with lyrics that carry a message of enjoying life.

Jorge Ben Jor’s innovative approach was initially criticized by samba traditionalists, but it was later widely embraced and propelled him to international fame.

Celebrating Afro-Brazilian culture and the joy of samba, this work embodies Brazil’s rich cultural heritage.

It’s a perfect song for when you want to surrender to the rhythm of samba and feel the joy of life with your whole being.

Paisagem Da JanelaLô Borges and Milton Nascimento

Paisagem Da Janela

A gem of a number by Lô Borges, born in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, and Milton Nascimento, known as “the Voice of Brazil.” Featured on the album Clube da Esquina, released in January 1972, this piece is marked by a gentle, melodic tone.

Through the scenery seen from a window, it poetically expresses the transience and beauty of life, as well as the passage of time.

Its simple yet profound lyrics are said to reflect Brazil’s social climate of the era.

The album Clube da Esquina itself is known as a highly significant work in the history of Brazilian music, and this track is also highly regarded as part of it.

Highly recommended for those who want to feel the specialness found in everyday moments.

O Bêbado e a EquilibristaElis Regina

Elis Regina – O Bêbado e a Equilibrista

Let me introduce a true classic that represents Brazilian music and made a major social impact! Best known through Elis Regina’s performance, this song became famous as an anthem of resistance born under Brazil’s military dictatorship.

It was included on the album “Essa Mulher,” released in May 1979, and is categorized as MPB (Música Popular Brasileira).

Beneath its seemingly fresh and pleasant melody lies a profound message that metaphorically expresses Brazil’s political and social conditions of the time.

Of course, you can simply enjoy the music itself, but I encourage you to read a bilingual translation of the lyrics and connect with the intentions embedded in the song.

O Show Tem Que ContinuarFundo de Quintal

O Show Tem Que Continuar

Fundos de Quintal’s signature tracks, which play a pivotal role in the samba–pagode scene, are marked by crisp, lively banjo strumming and powerful percussion beats.

The title track of their 1988 album “O show tem que continuar” stands out with its warm, pagode-style vocals and upbeat sound, delivering an irresistibly sing-along melody that listeners familiar with English-language music can enjoy as well.

Celebrating the strength to move forward in the face of lost love and setbacks, this song blends Brazil’s traditional rhythms with a modern touch—perfectly encapsulating the essence of Fundo de Quintal.

Give it a listen when you want to soak up Brazil’s sunny vibes or boost your spirits.

Aquarela do BrasilGal Costa

Aquarela do Brasil – Gal Costa

One of Brazil’s signature songs that almost everyone has heard at least once.

Gal Costa’s high, clear, and soaring voice seems to evoke Brazil’s endlessly blue sky and sea.

A beautifully watercolored vision of Brazil comes vividly to mind.